Inflorescence - Terminal and axillary thrysoid panicles to 30cm long(tall). Each division of inflorescence subtended by gradually smaller linear bracts. Lowest division of inflorescence subtended by foliaceous bracts. Peduncles and pedicels with glandular pubescence. Glands deep purple to black, (use a lens to see the color). Pedicels to 1.5cm long in flower, slightly longer in fruit.

Other info. - This species is found throughout Missouri. When not in flower, this species can be confused with another species, Agastache nepetoides (L.) O. Ktze., from the Lamiaceae. When in flower, though, S. marilandica is unmistakable because of its tall size and big open thrysoid panicles.
Steyermark lists two forms for the plant based on leaf pubescence but even he admits they are probably not valid.
Traditionally this species was used as a tea and a poultice for many ailments from fever to anxiety.

While I was out taking some of these pictures my co-worker Dan slipped and fell on this Copperhead:

Copperheads, Agkistrodon contortrix, are great snakes and this fine specimen didn't even try to bite and stayed very still so that we could take her picture.

Photographs taken at Logan Creek, Reynolds County, MO., 7-13-03, and along the shores of the Current River, Carter County, MO., 7-9-04.